Volunteer

Dick: “I first became aware of CASA about 10 years ago. Someone made a presentation at a Kiwanis meeting that I attended. I remember thinking, ‘I’d be interested in doing that.’ We still owned our business then. We actually moved to China for a year, and when we came back we went to a business expo where CASA had a booth. That’s when I mentioned it to Diane.”

Q: What made you want to volunteer as a CASA?

Diane: “We both had childhood experiences that gave us a heart for these kids. We weren’t removed from our homes or anything like that, but we both had some issues at home growing up. It kind of touched my heart that I could do something to speak for a child that didn’t have a voice. It was something that we could do together.”

Q: What do you enjoy most about being an advocate?

Dick: “We like developing the relationships with the children. And I feel that the judges really do listen to what we as CASAs think.”

Diane: “Many of our children have been in several different cities and placements. And I think some of them are a bit surprised that everywhere they go, we keep showing up. We’re a consistent presence.”

Q: What do you find most challenging about volunteering with CASA?

Dick: “You’ve got to be flexible (to work within the child welfare system). It can move slowly.”

Q: What would you say to someone who is considering becoming a CASA?

Dick: “I would recommend that anyone who is looking to contribute, that they consider CASA. Especially if you’re retired – it’s a good way to spend your time if you don’t want to just sit at home all day.”

Mission Statement

CASA of Trinity Valley provides independent, highly trained volunteer advocates for children in the custody of Texas Department of Family and Protective Services in Anderson, Cherokee and Henderson counties...